12 Nigerien soldiers killed in deadly ambush

Twelve members of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces (FDS) have been confirmed dead after falling into a terrorist ambush during a security operation in Niger Republic’s Tillabéri Region.

Security analyst Zagozola Makama reported that the attack occurred on Friday, April 25, about 10 kilometres north of Sakoira. Troops on a mission to safeguard the area were ambushed by insurgents who had concealed themselves within civilian settlements.

Despite being caught off guard, security sources said the soldiers mounted a “swift and courageous response,” maintaining their defensive positions until both air and ground reinforcements arrived. The arrival of backup troops forced the attackers to retreat towards the northern sector.

In response to the assault, the FDS launched an aggressive pursuit, deploying significant ground and aerial assets to hunt down the fleeing insurgents. Tragically, 12 soldiers lost their lives during the intense battle.

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Meanwhile, two suspects believed to have taken part in the ambush were arrested during a follow-up operation.

They were reportedly found hiding on elevated terrain and have since been handed over to authorities for interrogation, with investigators working to uncover their roles and identify any terrorist network accomplices.